Macaroni Kid
East Tucson
Macaroni Kid  

Welcome to East Tucson Macaroni Kid!


Welcome to East Tucson Macaroni Kid!

If you live and play in East or Central Tucson, then this is the newsletter for you!  I, too, live (and play) in this community and strive to bring you the best family-friendly happenings every week. 

East Tucson Macaroni Kid is FREE and easy, thanks for stopping by.  Make sure you click the "SUBSCRIBE NOW" tab at the top right of the page, and every week you'll receive a new e-newsletter about happenings and upcoming events in our community.

If you have any ...


Me-Time?


Musings from the publisher's desk

Isn't this picture heavenly?  It's so enticing...a beautifully prepared massage table at a lovely spa.  It makes me think of the wonderful massage/facial gift certificate I got for Mother's Day.  Exciting, right?  Just what the doctor ordered.  A perfect gift for a busy mom.  

But, there's a problem...I'm a busy mom.  I have to REDEEEM the gift certificate in order to enjoy it.  And that could take a while.  For now, it goes into the drawer with TWO similar certificates that I ...

The 2nd Annual Mother's MONTH Giveaway Blitz


Week THREE of Mother's Month Giveaways

You time.  Win it.  And then USE IT (don't be like me)!  The three giveaways this week are all about YOU time.  Click the links below to enter!  

Win a Glo-Therapeutics Facial from Head to Toe Healthcare (valued at $75).

Win a Heavenly Organic Facial from Karma Day Spa (valued at $75)

Win an "All About Me" Photo Shoot from Visions and Smiles Photography (valued at $175).

Good luck!!

Each week during the month of May, East Tucson Macaroni Kid will be giving away prizes especially for all the ...

Win a Facial worth $75 from Head to Toe Healthcare


A 2012 Mac Kid Mother's MONTH Giveaway

Is your skin showing too much age?  Do you have blemishes?  Or is your skin simply tired (like the rest of you)?  Here's some disheartening news:  80% of skin damage happens before age 18.  And all the little things since then...time in the sun, those none-too-careful nighttime skin rituals, make your skin look older than it is...and older than YOU feel.  

Head to Toe Healthcare believes that hard-working, vibrant moms like you deserve to look and feel your best!  Their skin treatments can help to combat signs ...

Win a Heavenly Organic Facial from Karma Day Spa


A 2012 Mac Kid Mother's MONTH Giveaway

Ahh, the ultimate in mama-splurges:  An amazing facial from Karma Day Spa!  

Karma Day Spa is a lovely little haven nestled in the Rincon Market plaza on 6th Street and Tucson Blvd.  Devoted to nurturing your mind, body and spirit, Karma offers a warm, relaxing and peaceful environment in which to melt away the stresses of the day.  As the winner of the Karma Heavenly Organic Facial (worth a total of $75), one lucky Macaroni Kid subscriber will experience that stress-melting for free.  For 60 minutes, the winner will be ...


Win a Visions and Smiles Photography Photo Shoot!


A 2012 Mac Kid Mother's MONTH Giveaway

Are you always the one holding the camera?  When was the last time you actually were IN a photo? Visions and Smiles Photography wants to pamper you with a photo shoot JUST for you!  Valued at $175, you'll get a pre-shoot consultation, the photo shoot, and a disc with all of your photos.  Not to mention your choice of location, props and some costumes.  Spend a couple of hours with Visions and Smiles Photography, and get ready to wow your significant other with the results.  No, scratch that.  Get ...


2012 East Tucson Summer Fun Guide


2012 SUMMER FUN GUIDE
How will your kids spend the long, hot days of summer?  Check out the East Tucson Macaroni Kid Summer Fun Guide for ideas.  From day camps to day care, from art to sports to music, there is something out there for every child...aged 6 weeks (really!) to 18 years.

Click HERE for Early Childhood Programs (up to age 6), featuring:


Click HERE for Sports and Activity Programs featuring:
Click HERE for Art, Drama and Music Programs featuring:  
Click HERE for Animal Themed Camps/Activities featuring:
**If you have a summer program you'd like to list in the guide, there is still time!  Contact Kindle at kindler@macaronikid.com for information.**

This Week's Picks:


May 16th through May 20th

Wednesday, May 16 through Sunday, May 20 - Mary Poppins

MARY POPPINS is bringing its own brand of Broadway magic to theaters across the country, which has Variety raving, "This is the rare touring production that over-delivers on every level!" Featuring the irresistible story and unforgettable songs from one of the most popular Disney films of all time, plus brand-new breathtaking dance numbers and spectacular stage-craft, MARY POPPINS is everything you could ever want in a hit Broadway show! So get swept up in the fun of this high-flying musical the New York Post gives 4 out of 4 stars and calls "a perfect piece of musical theater."
Where: Tucson Music Hall, 260 S. Church Ave.
When: 7:30 PM (Showtimes: 7:30 PM 5/16 and 5/17, 8:00 PM 5/18, 2:00 & 8:00 5/19 and 1:00 & 6:30 5/20)
Who: Family Friendly!  Suitable for children ages 6 and older.
How: Purchase tickets HERE.
Cost: Ticket prices range from $26.00-$96.00 (not including fees).
For more info: Visit the Broadway in Tucson website for more information and for links to purchase tickets.
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Friday, May 18 - Art Museum Day

Enjoy FREE admission to the Tucson Museum of Art all day.  Children can create unique art projects in the Children's Creative space and parents can write or draw about their museum experience on the memory wall.  Get 10% off at the Cafe a la C'Art all day with your museum sticker.  
Where: Tucson Museum of Art, 140 N. Main
When: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Who: The whole family
How: Just show up.
Cost: FREE admission day!
For more info: http://www.tucsonmuseumofart.org, 520-624-2333
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Saturday, May 19 - Sensorium for Kids: "You Are Special" Workshop

If you have children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, or friends with children, bring them to Sensorium for Kids and let them (and yourself, via your child) discover their special talents. We support creative, fun, playful, kind, loving and imaginative expression. We want to nurture your child/children in trusting his/her insight and intuition. By developing these skills, your child will build self-reliance and confidence.

Our first workshop, You are Special, taps into your child as a special being. We will use hands-on activities like yoga, art, music, movement, and storytelling. A healthy snack will be provided.
Where: 914 E. Helen Street
When: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Who: Children ages 2-8 (Look for other age ranges at upcoming workshops. Parents are welcome to stay with their children for the meeting and encouraged to participate).
How: Please RSVP by e-mail or phone (see contact info below).
Cost: $10 per family suggested donation
For more info: Elisabeth Black is a certified teacher for 15 years, intuitive, empath, passionate about helping children accept their GIFTS, storyteller, and writer.  Contact her with questions or to RSVP at 520-282-0050 or sweetnessofsoul@yahoo.com
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Sunday, May 20 - Best of Stories that Soar!

Best of Stories that Soar! is a fun-filled, family-friendly event celebrating the amazing powers of children’s imaginations, literacy and the performing arts. 
Featuring the STS! professional acting troupe and utilizing comedy, drama, acrobatics, dance, music and more, to bring to live stories written by local children. Join us, and watch the magic unfold!  
Where: Temple of Music and Art, 330 S. Scott Ave.
When: 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Another (totally different!) show runs from 6:30-7:30 PM)
Who: The whole family
How: Purchase tickets online or at Antigone Books on 4th Avenue
Cost: $10 for adults, $5 children under 12
For more info: Visit the Literacy Connects website for more details.
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This Week's Calendar:


May 17th through May 23rd

Thursday, May 17 - FREE documentary screening at Tucson Village Farm

Join the Healthy Girl Adventures Club and Tucson Village farm for a free screening of this HBO documentary that discusses the risks children take when carrying too much weight, and tips and tools for parents to help children lead healthier lives.  
Where: Tucson Village Farm, 4210 N. Campbell Ave.
When: 7:00 PM
Who: The whole family; probably best suited to older children (8+) and parents.
How: Register for the event HERE just to let them know you'll be there, or just show up!
Cost: FREE
For more info: Event information and registration:   http://weightofthenationscreening-eorg.eventbrite.com/
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Friday, May 18 - Bookmans Activities, Grant and Speedway

Bookman's Speedway:  Read to Me!  Story time and coloring activity.  
Bookman's Grant:  Tunes for Tots!
Where: Bookmans Speedway: 6230 E. Speedway Blvd. Bookmans Grant: 1930 E. Grant
When: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM (Weekly on Fridays)
Who: Children
How: Just show up!
Cost: FREE
For more info: www.bookmans.com
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Friday, May 18 - Nature Stories at Agua Caliente Park

Listening to stories is a wonderful way for children to learn about the natural world around them. Join us for a story reading at the park, followed by an art activity. This program is a partnership between Pima County Natural Resources and Tucson Audubon Society.
Where: Agua Caliente Park, 12325 E. Roger Road
When: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Who: The whole family
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: Call 615-7855, send an e-mail to eeducation@pima.gov or visit the Pima County Natural Resources, Parks and Recreation website.
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Friday, May 18 - Wildcat School Spring Fling

Wildcat School K-8 Spring Fling. There will be music, food, water slides, a book fair, jumping castles, choo choo train rides and a dunk tank. We will be providing tours of our facility and recruiting students for the upcoming 2012-1013 school year. A great opportunity to have fun, meet our educational staff, and some University of Arizona students.
Where: Wildcat School, 42 E. Adams
When: 3:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Who: The whole family
How: Just show up!
Cost: $5 admission
For more info: Call 294-5473 or visit  http://www.thewildcatschool.com
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Friday, May 18 - Sleeping Beauty Ballet, presented by Centre Stage Dance Studio

Dancers age 2-adult. Hip hop, jazz, ballet, tap, and more.  Beautiful costumes and dancing.
Where: Berger Performing Arts Center, 2100 W. Speedway
When: 5:00 PM (The second showing starts at 7:00 PM)
Who: The whole family
How: Purchase tickets in advance at www.atimetodance.com or call 520-272-3400
Cost: $8/person in advance, $10 at the door.
For more info: www.atimetodance.com, facebook Event Page, or call 520-320-1566 or 520-272-3400
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Friday, May 18 through Sunday, May 20 - CYT presents: Seussical

Seussical explores the witty, wild and whimsical world of Dr. Seuss as you've never seen it before. Travel back to your childhood to the Land of Whos and the Jungle of Nool and re-discover the delightfully zany characters created by one of the most beloved storytellers of all time. Both audiences and critics have been eating Seussical up like Green Eggs and Ham! Seussical has been called the "best family musical to hit Broadway in a long, long time!", and the children of CYT (ages 8-18) are bringing it to you!
Where: University of Arizona Music Building, 1017 N. Olive Rd 
When: 7:00 PM (There is a 2:00 show on Saturday, May 19 in addition to the 7:00 show. Sunday, May 20th performance is at 2:00 only.)
Who: The whole family
How: Purchase tickets HERE
Cost: $12/person
For more info: Visit  http://www.cyttucson.org
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Friday, May 18 - Candlelight Walk for Isa

Come together as a community to show continued support for the search efforts for Isable Celis.  After the walk, there will be special musical performances. 
Where: Walk begins at the Volunteer Center/Parking lot of Office Max at the SE corner of Broadway and Craycroft.
When: 7:00 PM
Who: The whole family.
How: The walk is approximately 2.5 miles.  Feel free to bring your own candles, banners, etc.  There will be water stations set up along the way.
Cost: Free, but donations will be accepted.
For more info: View the event flyer HERE.  
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Saturday, May 19 - Family Birding Walk

Families explore the shaded trails at Agua Caliente Park looking for Gila woodpeckers, curve-billed thrashers, hummingbirds, wetland birds and raptors.   
Where: Agua Caliente Park, 12325 E. Roger Road
When: 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Who: The whole family
How: Just show up,no reservations required
Cost: FREE
For more info: Call 615-7855, send an e-mail to eeducation@pima.gov or visit the Pima County Natural Resources, Parks and Recreation website.
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Saturday, May 19 through Sunday, May 20 - Gaslight Youth Theatre Presents: The Lady Pirates of Captain Bree

The Gaslight Youth Theatre made up of children ages 6 to 16 perform this swashbuckling professsionally staged musical-comedy. FREE Popcorn is included and food is available for purchase.
Where: Gaslight Theatre, 7010 E. Broadway
When: 11:00 AM
Who: The whole family
How: Call 886-9428 for ticket reservations (recommended) or purchase at the Gaslight Box Office
Cost: $12 for adults, $10 for children 12 and under
For more info: http://www.thegaslighttheatre.com, 886-9428
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Saturday, May 19 - Video Game Challenge: Bookmans Speedway

BOOM! It's May and we are celebrating all things video games! We are going to have a video game challenge with two awesome games. The challenge will be broken in to two groups/games. One game will be Mario Kart on the Wii and will be held in our Kids Corner! The other challenge will be Dance Central 2 and it will take place up front in our cafe! Sign-up starts at 11am sharp and gaming will begin at Noon! $500 in Bookmans trade prizes will be given away! Get your practice on and we will see you at the challenge! ZAP!
Where: Bookmans Speedway, 6230 E. 
When: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Who: Mario Kart challenge for children under 12; Dance Central 2 for ages 13+
How: Just show up! Sign up starts at 11:00 sharp.
Cost: FREE
For more info: www.bookmans.com
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Saturday, May 19 - Classic Sega Video Game Challenge Round 1

It's time for the annual Bookmans Video Game Challenge! This year at Bookmans Grant we're doing it big with the old school with Sonic the Hedgehog 2.
Where: Bookmans Grant, 1930 E. Grant
When: 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Who: All ages
How: When you come in you will sign up and leave your phone number.  The Top 16 scores from that day will get a call inviting them to come back the next week for Round Two. It's that easy!
Cost: FREE
For more info: www.bookmans.com, 325-5767
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Saturday, May 19 - Welcome the Returning Bats

Barbea Williams Performing Company performs a "Bat Dance" with students of Rio Vista Elementary School and special musical guests in the Rillito riverbed east of the Campbell Avenue bridge. Bat expert Yar Petryszyn shares his expertise, and entomologist Carl Olson speaks about the insects bats eat. The program is timed to end as the bats fly out from under the bridge. 
Where: The "Bat Bridge" at River and Campbell
When: 6:00 PM
Who: The whole family
How: Bring a flashlight, drinking water and a blanket to sit on. Access the site via the ramp located on the southeast side of the bridge.
Cost: FREE
For more info: Visit the Barbea Williams website:   http://worldofmusicanddance.arizona.edu
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Saturday, May 19 - Music in the Park-Udall Park

Bring your lawn chair or blanket, enjoy the awesome Tucson weather, experience talented musicians and participate in community fun!
Enjoy the first concert of the season with the Arizona Symphonic Winds.  The Arizona Symphonic Winds are composed of over 65 volunteer musicians has been performing in Tucson for over twenty years. The Symphonic Winds perform under the direction of László Veres, the renowned performer, educator and conductor who also directs both the Foothills Phil and the Tucson Pops.
Where: Udall Park, 7200 E. Tanque Verde Rd.
When: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Who: The whole family.
How: Just show up!  Arrive a bit early if possible; these concerts are very popular!  
Cost: FREE
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Sunday, May 20 - Science Sunday at Children's Museum Tucson

Fun-filled learning this summer at the Children’s Museum Tucson with Science Sundays!  Museum staff and guest organizations will provide hands-on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) themed activities each week. This week:  The Planetary Science Institute has solar eclipse activities.  

Science Sundays coincide with the opening of Investigation Station, the Museum’s all-new exhibit.  It will be the Museum’s largest exhibit to date and will offer a variety of STEM-based interactive features. 
Where: Tucson Children's Museum, 200 S. 6th Ave.
When: 10:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Who: Children of all ages and accompanying adults
How: Just show up!
Cost: $2 Admission Day!
For more info: Please call (520) 792-9985 or visit  www.childrensmuseumtucson.org.
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Sunday, May 20 - Tucson Clay Co-op Paint Bar

Paint your own pottery!  Bring the children or a group of friends and let out your inner artist.  Choose pieces hand-made by local artists; paints and brushes supplied.  No sitting fee! Just the cost of the piece!
Where: Tucson Clay Co-op, 3326 North Dodge Blvd
When: 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Who: Children and adults
How: Make a reservation by calling 917-705-3803
Cost: No studio fee!  Just pay the price of the piece that you'd like to paint.
For more info: 917-705-3803 or www.tucsonclayco-op.com,
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Sunday, May 20 - All Together Theater Presents: Thumbelina

Welcome to a land of magic and mystery where anything can happen. Come meet a tiny young girl named Thumbelina as she tries harder than most to make a difference in her world. In this wonderful musical we help Thumbelina overcome enormous obstacles and face her fears, while she meets a few crazy characters along the way.    
Where: Live Theatre Workshop, 5317 E Speedway Blvd
When: 1:00 PM
Who: The whole family
How: For ticket reservations call 327-4242 or e-mail:  livetheatreworkshop@gmail.com.  Reservations recommended.
Cost: Tickets $5-$8
For more info: phone:  520-327-4242, web:  www.LiveTheatreWorkshop.org
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Monday, May 21 - Baby & Me Play-based learning group

Join us in a relaxed and fun play environment just right for you and your infant!  Play builds your baby's brain as it builds your relationship.  Come join the fun!
Where: The Parent Connection, 5326 E. Pima St., Tucson, AZ
When: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Who: Babies birth to walking and parents
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: 520-321-1500, http://www.theparentconnectionaz.org
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Tuesday, May 22 - Music Hour with Nature

Make music, play instruments, learn about sound and have fun! Last Tuesday of the month: Make instruments out of recycled stuff!
Where: Bookman's Speedway; 6230 E. Speedway
When: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM (Every Tuesday)
Who: Children
How: Just show up!
Cost: FREE
For more info: www.bookmans.com
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Wednesday, May 23 - Tucson Clay Co-op Paint Bar

Paint your own pottery!  Bring the children or a group of friends and let out your inner artist.  Choose pieces hand-made by local artists; paints and brushes supplied.  No sitting fee! Just the cost of the piece!
Where: Tucson Clay Co-op, 3326 North Dodge Blvd
When: 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Who: Children and adults
How: Make a reservation by calling 917-705-3803
Cost: No studio fee!  Just pay the price of the piece that you'd like to paint.
For more info: 917-705-3803 or www.tucsonclayco-op.com,
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Wednesday, May 23 - Wee Move

This new program, Wee Move, will be offered every Wednesday at 3:00pm and will introduce preschoolers to sports and fitness games in a fun learning space.   
Where: Tucson Children's Museum, 200 S. 6th Ave.
When: 3:00 PM
Who: Children ages 3-5
How: Pre-register each week by calling (520) 792-9985 ext. 310. 
Cost: Wee Move is included with Museum admission. 
For more info: Please call (520) 792-9985 or visit  www.childrensmuseumtucson.org.
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Teen Scene:


May 19th through May 21st

Saturday, May 19 - Manga Mania!!

This summer reading kick-off party for teens has more events, food, and funthan you can shake a samurai sword at. Whether you love cosplay, gaming, crafts and origami, watching anime, or writing and drawing manga, you're sure to find something fun.  
Where: Murphy-Wilmot Branch Library, 530 N. Wilmot Road
When: 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Who: Teens 11-19 (parents welcome)
How: Dressing in costume is optional but highly encouraged (or you can make a costume and mask when you get here!!).  Bring two cans of food for extra Manga Money.
Cost: FREE!
For more info: Check out the library's web page here or follow on facebook.  You can also call the library at 594-5420
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Monday, May 21 - Summer Grrrls Parent Meeting

Girls ages 12-14 who are Pima County residents are eligible to participate in an 8-week empowerment workshop this summer, starting June 11 on Monday evenings.  Parents who attend this informational meeting will have a chance to learn about the program and sign their daughters up for FREE.
Where: Child and Family Resources, 2800 E. Broadway
When: 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Who: Parents of girls ages 12-14
How: Just show up or call 881-8940 for more information
Cost: FREE
For more info: View the flyer about the Grrrls Project HERE
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Plan Ahead:


Saturday, May 26 - Outdoor Family Day: Leapin Lizards

The palms at Agua Caliente Park are exotic trees but they are now part of the ecosystem. Learn the natural history of the palms and how they are used by animals in the Park. Make rubbings from the textured palm trunks and complete a nature craft using only recycled palm parts.
Where: Agua Caliente Park
When: 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Who: Families with children ages 5-12
How: Reservations Required.  Call 615-7855 or send an email to eeducation@pima.gov
Cost: FREE
For more info: Call 615-7855 or visit the Pima County Natural Resources, Parks and Recreation website.
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Saturday, May 26 - Art Gallery: Models that Tell a Story

As part of the scale model exhibit at Joel Valdez library throughout the month of May, there will be a special model-making event for children in the café/lounge area. Be sure to view all of the scale models on display in the lobby!
Where: Main library:  101 N. Stone Ave.
When: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Who: Children and accompanying adults
How: Just show up!
Cost: FREE
For more info: 594-5500 or check the library website
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Saturday, May 26 - Young Flyers Fun

This program is designed to introduce children to the world of Aviation and Aerospace through gallery activities and tours, story books, demonstrations, and hands-on craft projects that can be taken home
Where: Pima Air and Space Museum, 6000 E. Valencia Road
When: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Who: Children ages 4-7 and their adult companions
How: Reservations required.  Contact Mina Stafford at mstafford@pimaair.org
Cost: Program Free With paid or member admission. Pima County Residents $11.50, Children $8.00, Children 6 and under FREE.
For more info: http://www.pimaair.org/events.php or contact Mina Stafford mstafford@pimaair.org
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Macaroni Cares: Wildlife Weekend


Join the movement! Macaroni Kid is helping Dawn educate more than 2 million kids this spring about the issues affecting wildlife, from oil spills to backyard ecosystems. Check out the FREE, downloadable lesson plans and experiments for teachers and parents. The fun doesn't end in the classroom – you'll also find FREE "Wildlife Weekend" family activities that you can do in your own backyard.

To continue Dawn's 30+ year commitment to preserving wildlife, Dawn worked with their partners at The Marine Mammal Center and International Bird Rescue to ...

Macaroni Made: Stained Glass Window


Indoor fun with a beautiful result!

What you’ll need:
Clear contact paper
Squares of tissue paper
Tape
A BIG window

What you’ll do:
Tape clear contact paper over the entire window (sticky side out)
Allow your kids to stick multi-colored pieces of tissue paper all over the contact paper (no glue or take because it’s already sticky!!)

The beauty of this project is that kids of any age can participate! Older kids can create pictures using the tissue paper squares, while younger kids can have fun just sticking tissue paper to the window ...

Macaroni Yum: Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad


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Summer and pasta salad go hand in hand in this house. I LOVE having the ease of having a chilled pasta salad waiting for us in the fridge when we get home from the pool or zoo or whatever we have done that day. Add the benefit that there is no cleaning dishes and I can’t think of a better quick meal! We eat so much pasta salad, however, that I have had to come up with variations so that we don’t get bored with our typical “family ...


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